What is the fight-or-flight response?

The fight-or-flight response is predominantly a physiological reaction to perceived threats that prepares an individual to either confront or flee from danger. This response is triggered by the sympathetic nervous system and is characterized by a series of involuntary bodily changes, including an increased heart rate, heightened awareness, and the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These physiological responses are designed to enhance an individual's chances of survival in threatening situations by providing the energy and alertness needed to respond effectively.

Understanding this response is crucial, as it highlights how our bodies instinctively react to stressors, both physical and psychological. The fight-or-flight response is not limited to animals; humans also experience this reaction in response to stress in various forms, whether from immediate dangers or more abstract modern-day stressors. This intrinsic mechanism underscores the body's preparedness to handle challenges and threats as a fundamental aspect of survival.